Juny 2010

Just another beautiful Zambian child that we are privileged to serve through the Hope Center!

A team from Cornerstone Church (Ames) just returned from another fantastic trip to Serenje. There were flight delays, luggage was lost, and any number of other hurdles, but there is not a one that regrets the sacrifice. It is a privilege to serve alongside our Zambian friends.

One of the highlights was seeing the first ten students graduate from the Bible training. These men were ecstatic to receive a gift to commemorate their accomplishment: a bicycle, a backpack, and a new leather NIV Study Bible.
They were thrilled with all the gifts, but when the Bible came out things went crazy. All our Zambian friends started to dancing in joy - like a scene out of the Old Testament! Jeavers (pictured) graduated and already brought two more students into the next freshman class.

This is Martin (one of Jeaver's young leaders). We asked him to read a passage during a training session and realized that he stammered due to the fact that he only owned a King James Version Bible. It was treasured by Martin - but it was extremely difficult for him to read. Like many on our team, I was able to exchange Bibles with Martin, giving him an NIV. Oh, the things we take for granted!

These children are being cared for - and they care for one another! It is beautiful to see older siblings watch over their young ones, helping them eat and carrying them all over the place. It is a joy to help people who are already serving and helping one another!

The crops are doing great! And now the kids are helping with the task. Marlin Rice (our chief ag leader) plotted out a spot for each Hope child to have their own garden. Having fun and learning to take care of themselves - that's HOPE!

The team was fantastic and gave of themselves with joy. Continue to pray for the Hope Center and all the people being affected by the work of God - on both sides of the ocean!